Directory

The Basics

Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from March to November).

Electricity: Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.

Language: English is the most common language spoken but Spanish is often heard in the south-western states.

Travel Health: There are no specific health risks associated with travel within
the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only
emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be
refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good
medical insurance is essential.

Tipping: A 15 percent tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders,
hairdressers and waiters, but don't tip in fast-food or
self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large
parties, tip 20 percent of the bill. It is normal to tip staff such
as valets and porters in hotels; this is discretionary, although a
minimum of $5 is expected. Most services are customarily tipped if
the service is good.

Safety Information: Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free,
however, travellers should be aware that the US shares with the
rest of the world, an increased threat from terrorist incidents.
Security has been heightened, particularly at airports.
Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to
check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers
should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in
cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions.
Hurricanes are common between June and November, putting the
southern USA, including the Gulf Coast and the eastern US at risk.
There is a risk of wildfires in many dry areas in the US,
particularly on the West Coast from March to November.

Local Customs: Laws vary from state to state, including speed limit, fines and
punishment. The age at which you may legally buy and consume
alcohol is 21 years.

Business: In such a large country, filled with so many diverse groups,
business practices may differ according to each state, however
rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more
formal than the West Coast, however in states such as California
dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would
be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and
it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is
uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr,
Mrs, Ms) are used upon introduction and until otherwise stated.
Americans favour politeness and greetings of 'Hello' and 'How are
you?' are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary
in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is
the most common with an hour over lunch.
Status and age are not necessarily indicative of seniority, nor
do they carry much weight in themselves. Those doing business in
the States should be mindful of this fact; never make assumptions
about someone's position or rank. Best practice is to be respectful
to all parties. That said, the US upholds a hierarchal business
structure, in which 'the boss' is the ultimate decision-maker.
Senior leaders have the power of the last word, and can go against
the grain just as easily as they can follow popular opinion.
Concentrate on winning over this individual, even if the greater
group seems unsupportive. Americans value a direct style of
communication. In this fast-paced, consumer culture 'time is
money', and small-talk is viewed as unnecessary and wasteful. Get
to the point quickly, speak about issues in a frank and open
manner, and don't take offence if someone questions or challenges
you outright.

Communications: The international country dialling code for the United States is
+1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban
areas. Internet cafes are prevalent in most towns and cities and
wifi is widely available.

Duty Free: Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of
the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to
the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and
their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior.
For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin
Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,200 is allowed. The following
items are included in this: 50 cigarettes and 10 cigars and 150
millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages or 150 millilitres
(5 fl. oz.) of perfume containing alcohol. Restrictions may apply
to goods from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Burma (Myanmar), Angola,
Liberia and Sudan. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any
country.
Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not
have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200
cigarettes and gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in
the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not
been used in the preceding six-month period.
Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include meat or
meat products, poultry, narcotics, absinthe, plants, seeds,
vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects and other living plants or
animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free
certification. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry
restrictions. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are
not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the
necessary license and permit.